The Language Training Development Project for Tourism in Aranyaprathet is a collaborative effort between the Faculty of Humanities and Aranyaprathet School. This was created to help students and local community members improve their language and technical skills specifically tailored for the tourism industry in Aranyaprathet. The project focuses on equipping participants with the tools they need to succeed in their careers and contribute to the local economy.
This project aims to provide participants with essential language skills in both English and Khmer alongside technical skills in creating digital media for tourism. The overarching goal is to prepare them for employment in the tourism sector foster entrepreneurial opportunities, and support the local economy. Additionally, the project aligns with the Sustainable Development Goal 4.4 which seeks to increase the number of people with relevant skills for employment and entrepreneurship by 2030.

This project is split into two key phases:

Phase 1: Digital Media Creation for Tourism
In this phase, participants are trained in creating digital content that highlights the tourism attractions of Aranyaprathet. They learn how to use modern technology and software to design and produce online media, such as videos, websites and social media content aimed at promoting the local area. This training is crucial as it helps participants develop technical skills that are increasingly important in today’s digital world.

Phase 2: Language Training and Fieldwork
The second phase focuses on enhancing participants’ language skills in English and Khmer specifically for tourism. The training includes intensive workshops that emphasize learning key vocabulary and phrases useful for interacting with tourists. After the workshops, participants engage in fieldwork at Aranyaprathet School where they apply what they’ve learned by interacting with local businesses and tourists. This practical experience is invaluable as it allows participants to practice their skills in real-life situations and gain confidence in their abilities.

The results of the project have been very positive. For instance, participants significantly improved their language skills. In the Khmer language workshops, the average pre-test score was 43.70, which increased to 82.03 after the training. Similarly, in the English language workshops, the average pre-test score was 30.48, and it jumped to 86.65 after the course. These improvements show that the training effectively enhanced the participants' ability to communicate in both languages, which is vital for working in the tourism industry.

Quantitative Results: Participants showed significant improvement in language skills, with Khmer and English test scores increasing by 87.64% and 184.16%, respectively.

Qualitative Results: Participants gained confidence in using their language skills in real-life situations finding the training practical and relevant. They valued the hands-on experience, especially in creating digital media for tourism. Participants reported new career opportunities as a direct result of the skills learned in the program.